I have done two firmware updates. The first was when I got the 990 2 years ago, and the second was this summer with the new firmware came out. Both times I had to take the 990 upstairs to my PC for the update, as I don't have (the need) for a laptop.

My HDTV from 2001 only has Component (no DVI/HDMI) so that does not bother me. But I'd lide to have HDMI on a new Pre/Pro so when the time comes to buy a new TV it will work together.

I'm also a remote junkie and use the ones that come with each device. The last universal remote I tried was 3 years ago (not sure of the brand) but it was horriable. I've had no issues with the 990's remote in the 2 years I've owned it. Yours might have been defective.